Varying Ignition Quality of a Fuel for a HCCI Engine Using a Photochemically-Controlled Additive: The Development of a ‘Smart’ Fuel

This study examines the possibility to provide control over ignition timing in a homogeneous charge compression engine (HCCI) using fuel additive whose molecular structure can be adapted upon exposure UV light. The molecule has greater influence on retarding than original molecule, hence time modulated expose new is referred as ‘smart fuel’. form of 1,3-cyclohexadiene (CHD), it undergoes electro-cyclic ring opening 1,3,5-hexatriene (HT). Various solutions iso-octane, n-heptane and CHD have been irradiated by light for different amounts time. HT conversion was examined gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. A primary reference (PRF) mixture 90% iso-octane 10% used baseline an optically accessible combustion chamber large bore, single cylinder engine. operated HCCI mode, early injection utilized heated compressed air intake. Following this PRF 5% then 240 min, resulting containing 1.72% HT, had much later start compared PRF, which turn baseline. successfully validated concept photo-chemical ‘smart’ significantly change quality mode demonstrated on-board fuel’ applications ICE.